From a library stacked with original editions by famous authors to a performing arts venue and nature walks, there’s always something to see and do at this public research uni near Brighton.
The University of Sussex is an educational institute nestled in the shadow of the beautiful South Downs National Park. Walk alongside students and between an interesting collection of architectural landmarks. Be part of student-organized events and follow a trail around the campus’ surrounding countryside. Established in 1961, the University of Sussex counts Nobel Prize laureates among its staff and notable politicians among its alumni.
At the heart of the campus is Library Square, a place where students often meet up before walking to lecture theaters. The Modernist-style Falmer House, designed by Scottish architect Sir Basil Spence, dominates the square. On the same side is the Meeting House, another Spence creation that has an interior resembling a kaleidoscope. This building serves as the headquarters of the university chaplaincy and is a place for religious services.
Seek out the University of Sussex Library. This public library stores some 750,000 books in addition to digital archives and online journals. Just a short walk from the university is the library’s special collections at The Keep. Of particular interest here are the personal papers belonging to the writer Rudyard Kipling. The Monks House Papers is an archive of letters and manuscripts related to the life of Virginia Woolf.
Set aside some time to visit the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts. It puts on interdisciplinary arts events such as concerts, dance exhibitions, debates and movie screenings. A schedule of events is available on the venue’s official website.
The Boundary Walk weaves through the meadows and woodland that encompass the campus. Spot 300-year-old oak trees, badgers, deer and varied birdlife. The adjacent Stanmer Park is another pleasant area to explore on foot and enjoy picnics. It dates back to Neolithic times and offers a glimpse into the natural landscapes of the South Downs National Park.
Located in the village of Falmer, the University of Sussex is a 20-minute drive from central Brighton. Public buses and trains travel between the city and university. Metered parking is possible within the grounds of the campus.
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